[Lgpolicy] South Africa - Erosion of Language Rights: Afrikaans, Education, and the Battle for Inclusivity

[Francis M. Hult via Lgpolicy]

Polity

Erosion of Language Rights: Afrikaans, Education, and the Battle for
Inclusivity

The recent decision by the Legal Practice Council (“LPC”) to conduct all
exams for candidate attorneys and pupil advocates exclusively in English
has sparked significant controversy and discontent among various
stakeholders. This move, ostensibly aimed at achieving uniformity and
addressing “perceived advantages” to Afrikaans-speaking candidates, raises
profound constitutional concerns, particularly in the context of
educational and language rights.

This decision, seen alongside the ongoing legislative developments
encapsulated in the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill (“BELA Bill”),
becomes a critical aspect of the evolving language and education landscape
in South Africa. The BELA Bill proposes substantial changes to the South
African Schools Act (“SASA”) and the Educators Employment Act, aiming to
transform the education sector. The correlation between the LPC's “English
only” decision and the BELA Bill underscores the deepening challenges
facing linguistic and cultural diversity in South Africa.

Full story:
https://www.polity.org.za/article/erosion-of-language-rights-afrikaans-education-and-the-battle-for-inclusivity-2024-01-24
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